The Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly made a surprising decision that has stirred up strong reactions across their passionate fanbase. According to multiple sources within the organization, the front office has internally agreed to move forward with June Thomas—a versatile but controversial young forward—as a permanent fixture in the rotation for the 2025–26 NBA season.
While team executives are sold on Thomas’s potential and believe he brings a unique skillset to the roster, many Lakers fans are in open revolt. The reasons? From inconsistent performances, to locker room questions, and most notably, the franchise’s confusing developmental priorities, supporters fear this move signals a deeper issue within the team’s long-term vision.
Let’s break down the situation, the reasoning behind the decision, and why fans are reacting with frustration.
🟡 Who Is June Thomas?
For casual NBA fans, June Thomas may not be a household name—yet. The 6’8”, 22-year-old forward out of Baylor University was drafted 34th overall by the Lakers in the 2024 NBA Draft. Seen as a “high-upside project,” Thomas entered the league with a raw but intriguing combination of athleticism, length, and positional flexibility.
In his rookie season, Thomas played sparingly, averaging:
- 5.7 points per game
- 3.2 rebounds
- 38.9% shooting from the field
- 17.4 minutes per game in 41 appearances
While he had flashes—especially with his perimeter defense and hustle plays—his offense left much to be desired. Thomas struggled with decision-making, spacing, and shot selection. Yet, according to the Lakers’ new coaching staff, he’s earned a long-term spot based on his offseason development and “intangibles.”
🟣 The Lakers’ Decision: Building for the Future?
Multiple insiders confirm that General Manager Rob Pelinka and newly appointed head coach JJ Redick see Thomas as part of their “youth-first initiative” to inject energy and defense into the forward rotation. Sources say Thomas has impressed in closed-team workouts and was even featured heavily in the Lakers’ pre-Summer League scrimmages.
“June’s effort, adaptability, and defensive versatility are what this team needs,” one Lakers assistant coach told The Athletic. “He’s the kind of glue guy you win games with.”
But this plan comes with consequences—particularly for veterans like Taurean Prince and Cam Reddish, who may now see their roles reduced. Thomas is expected to play 20+ minutes per night heading into training camp, and the team appears committed to giving him real developmental reps.
🔥 Why Are Fans So Upset?
The reaction online has been overwhelmingly negative. Within hours of the news leaking, “June Thomas” was trending on X (formerly Twitter), and Lakers forums exploded with criticism.
Here are the core reasons behind the backlash:
1. Performance Doesn’t Match the Promotion
Fans feel the decision is unjustified by performance. Despite a handful of solid games, Thomas’s rookie year was largely forgettable. For a franchise known for chasing banners, the idea of prioritizing development over proven production is rubbing fans the wrong way.
“He’s not ready. Not even close. And we’re the Lakers, not the Rockets,” wrote one Reddit user on r/lakers.
2. Better Options Are Available
With free agency heating up and rumors swirling around possible trades, fans are bewildered that the front office seems content with an unproven player rather than pursuing veterans who can help win now—especially with LeBron James likely entering the final year of his career.
“We could get someone like Jerami Grant or even Kyle Kuzma back, and this is what we’re doing?” asked a user on LakersNation.
3. Mixed Messaging from the Front Office
Fans have long been frustrated with the inconsistent direction of the Lakers’ decision-making. After spending years making win-now moves, including trading youth for stars, the sudden push to embrace developmental players like Thomas feels contradictory.
It raises an uncomfortable question: Are the Lakers rebuilding without saying so?
📉 The Bigger Problem: Trust Erosion
More than anything, the issue seems to be trust—or lack thereof. Many fans no longer believe the Lakers have a coherent long-term plan. From cycling through head coaches, to questionable draft picks, to inconsistent player development, the franchise feels to many supporters like it’s spinning its wheels.
This latest commitment to June Thomas—a player many fans view as a fringe rotational piece—symbolizes that uncertainty.
💬 Player Reaction
Surprisingly, some players have spoken supportively of the move. Austin Reaves, during a recent podcast appearance, said:
“June works hard. He listens. He’s getting better, man. I think he could surprise a lot of people next year.”
Veteran center Anthony Davis has reportedly taken Thomas under his wing, mentoring him on defensive rotations and communication—an indication the locker room may be more united on this decision than the fans.
🔍 What Happens Next?
With the NBA Draft approaching and free agency shortly after, the Lakers will soon face intense scrutiny over how they round out their roster. If the commitment to June Thomas is part of a broader youth movement, fans will expect a clear explanation and results.
Alternatively, if Thomas underwhelms early in the season, the Lakers risk appearing unserious about competing, especially if LeBron James grows frustrated.
✅ Final Thoughts: Potential or Problem?
June Thomas may have a future in the league. His raw tools are undeniably intriguing. But the timing and context of the Lakers’ decision to lock him into a key role is where the controversy lies.
For a team with championship DNA and two aging superstars, this feels like a gamble. And unlike the quiet development of role players in past years, this one is front and center—and the fans are watching closely.
Whether Thomas proves them wrong remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the Lakers’ margin for error is shrinking, and every roster decision now carries weight.
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